Makena HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Makena, Hawaii.
1. Pu'u Olai
ICONIC VOLCANIC FORMATION
Pu'u Olai is an iconic volcanic cinder cone situated in the Makena State Park area. The formation offers a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the coastline and neighboring islands. It stands as a significant geologic symbol in the region, attracting nature enthusiasts and hikers.
2. Keawanaku Beach
SECLUDED COASTAL PARADISE
Keawanaku Beach is the penultimate destination for those hiking the Hoapili trail. It offers visitors seeking seclusion a pristine coastal escape away from the more populated beaches. The beach provides a tranquil setting with beautiful views and natural surroundings.
3. Ohana Ocean Adventures
FAMILY-RUN WATER EXCURSIONS
Ohana Ocean Adventures is a family and Coast Guard veteran-owned operation specializing in scuba and snorkeling experiences. They prioritize safe and exceptional ocean adventures for visitors wanting to explore Maui's underwater world. Their team consists of passionate surfers, divers, kayakers, and adventure seekers who love sharing the ocean with guests.
4. Paddle On! Maui Private Tours
EXCLUSIVE WATER ACTIVITIES
Paddle On! Maui offers owner-operated and county-permitted private paddleboard, kayak, snorkel, whale watch, and SUP yoga tours. Their exclusive private tour approach ensures a personalized experience for each group of visitors. The company provides a comprehensive water adventure experience in the beautiful waters of Makena.
5. Surf Cycling Hawaii
INNOVATIVE OCEAN EXPLORATION
Surf Cycling Hawaii offers water bike ocean tours, providing an eco-friendly way to explore Maui's beautiful ocean. These innovative water bikes allow visitors of all skill levels to capture amazing experiences on the water. Their day trips showcase the stunning coastal scenery of Makena from a unique perspective.
6. Glow SUP Maui
ILLUMINATED NIGHTTIME PADDLING
Glow SUP Maui specializes in nighttime stand-up paddleboarding tours off the coast of Makena. Visitors can experience stargazing, bio-luminescent plankton, and night-time wildlife on these professionally guided tours. The unique evening water experience offers a magical perspective of Maui's ocean environment after dark.
7. Maui Luxe Picnics
UPSCALE OUTDOOR DINING
Maui Luxe Picnics creates unique and intimate dining experiences in one of the most beautiful places in the world. The company specializes in romantic proposals and special occasions with gourmet food in picturesque settings. Their services combine a love of food, nature, and gatherings for memorable outdoor dining experiences in Makena.
8. Makena State Park Beach
PRISTINE COASTAL RESERVE
Makena State Park Beach, also known as Oneloa or Big Beach, features three distinct, undeveloped beaches and a dormant volcano crater. The park offers nearly a mile of golden sands ideal for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Its pristine waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling on calm days, with vibrant marine life just offshore.
9. Makena Beach
MAUI'S GOLDEN SHORELINE
Makena Beach is one of Maui's most renowned coastal gems with its vast expanse of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach provides stunning views of Molokini Crater and Kaho'olawe Island, making it a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation. It is popular for bodyboarding and skimboarding due to the powerful shorebreak, attracting thrill-seekers looking for excitement.
10. Makena Surf Resort
SECLUDED BEACHFRONT HIDEAWAY
Makena Surf Resort is a secluded hideaway on Maui's southern shore offering pristine beaches and stunning views. The resort provides easy access to local attractions while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere away from busier tourist areas. Visitors enjoy the combination of luxury accommodations and the natural beauty of Makena's coastline.
11. Wailea Beach
LUXURY COASTAL EXPERIENCE
Wailea Beach is a crescent-shaped golden sand beach adjacent to Makena with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is fronted by several luxury resorts, offering amenities like beach chair rentals, water sports equipment, and beachside dining. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained shoreline, gentle surf, and spectacular sunset views over neighboring islands.
12. The Shops at Wailea
UPSCALE RETAIL PARADISE
The Shops at Wailea is an upscale open-air shopping center featuring over 70 boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants near Makena. Visitors can find a mix of designer brands, local Hawaiian products, and unique souvenirs in a beautifully landscaped setting. The center regularly hosts cultural events, live music, and art shows, enhancing the shopping experience with local Hawaiian culture.
13. Monkeypod Kitchen
FARM-TO-TABLE CULINARY DELIGHT
Monkeypod Kitchen is a popular restaurant near Makena known for its farm-to-table cuisine, craft cocktails, and extensive beer selection. The restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and offers a menu featuring fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and Hawaiian-inspired dishes. Diners enjoy the lively atmosphere, open-air seating, and legendary Mai Tais topped with honey-lilikoi foam.
14. Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
PROTECTED MARINE ECOSYSTEM
Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve is a protected marine ecosystem located just south of Makena Beach. The reserve encompasses recent lava flows, anchialine pools, and some of Maui's best snorkeling spots with abundant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can explore designated trails through the unique volcanic landscape while learning about conservation efforts to preserve this fragile environment.
15. Maluaka Beach
TURTLE VIEWING HAVEN
Maluaka Beach is known as 'Turtle Town' due to the frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles in its clear waters. The beach offers excellent snorkeling conditions with vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life just offshore. Visitors appreciate the relatively uncrowded atmosphere, ample parking, and the shade provided by trees lining portions of this golden sand beach.