Weather: Makalawena is located in one of the driest regions of the Big Island, with consistently sunny skies and warm temperatures. Trade winds can pick up in the afternoon, so early morning visits offer the best light and calmest conditions.
Pack a Day Bag: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, towel, sturdy shoes, lots of water, snacks or lunch, and a light cover-up. There’s no shade unless you find a spot under the sparse trees or bring your own umbrella.
What to Wear: Comfortable hiking sandals or closed-toe shoes are recommended for the rocky lava trail leading to the beach. Flip-flops are not ideal for the walk in but fine for lounging once you arrive.
What to Bring: Bring everything you’ll need—there are no services or vendors. A small cooler or backpack with water and food is essential, especially if you plan to stay for a few hours.
Phone Service: Cell service is limited to nonexistent once you leave the highway and approach the shoreline. Share your plans and location with someone ahead of time.
Bathrooms: There are no public restrooms or facilities at Makalawena Beach. The nearest bathrooms are at Kekaha Kai State Park's main entrance near Mahaiʻula Beach.
Parking: Most visitors park at the end of the rugged lava road leading to Mahaiʻula Beach and hike 20–30 minutes north to Makalawena. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the rough road, but many also park earlier and hike in.
Check-In Booth: There is no check-in—this is a remote beach within a state park. Follow posted signs and respect any wildlife protection notices along the trail or dunes.
Photography: Cameras are welcome. The white sand, turquoise water, and backdrop of lava fields make this one of the most picturesque and secluded beaches on the island.
Accessible for Disability: Makalawena is not accessible for those with mobility challenges. The trail requires a walk over uneven lava and sand dunes, with no paved paths or accommodations.
Traditional Hawaiian Land and Cultural Significance
Makalawena Beach lies within the Pū‘u Ali‘i and Mahai‘ula ahupua‘a in the North Kona district. In ancient times, this area was part of a coastal settlement zone where Native Hawaiians lived, fished, farmed, and maintained deep cultural ties to the land and sea. The coastline was used for salt harvesting, canoe landings, and spiritual practices, often tied to heiau (temples) and sacred sites found nearby. The name Makalawena translates to “many temptations,” a reference to the beach’s alluring beauty and perhaps the abundance of resources once found here.
Historical Sites and Heiau
Just inland from Makalawena are archeological remnants of ancient Hawaiian life, including:
House platforms
Petroglyphs
Fishing shrines
Burial sites
Kīholo-era trails connecting it to other coastal communities
Nearby Pu‘u Ali‘i Heiau and the Makaiwa Bay area reflect the region's historical spiritual importance.
Access and Preservation
Makalawena is part of the Kekaha Kai State Park and is intentionally kept undeveloped and rugged to preserve its natural and cultural integrity. There’s no paved road to the beach—you either:
Hike in from Kua Bay (Manini‘ōwali Beach) via a lava trail
Or drive a rough 4WD path through Mahai‘ula and walk the remaining trail through ancient lava fields and coastal vegetation
This effort to keep the beach somewhat difficult to access has helped protect it from over-tourism, keeping its waters clear, reefs vibrant, and wildlife active.
Modern Importance and Features
Today, Makalawena is beloved for:
Powdery white sand and turquoise waters
Excellent snorkeling and swimming in calm conditions
Occasional honu (sea turtle) sightings on the shore
A peaceful, remote atmosphere rarely found in more touristy areas
It’s also a sacred space for many locals who come to reconnect with the land, meditate, or honor cultural traditions.
