Mike's Travel Adventures
Big Beach
Big Beach (officially Makena Beach) is exactly what it sounds like, huge, stunning, and unforgettable. Located in Makena State Park on Maui's south shore, it's one of the largest and most scenic beaches on the island, with golden sand that stretches nearly 2/3 of a mile and a backdrop of volcanic hills and turquoise water. It's a favorite for locals and visitors who want a raw, natural beach vibe without the resort scene. Why Visit Big Beach? Massive Stretch of Sand: This beach is wide, long, and usually not too crowded, so it's perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or just laying back and enjoying the view. Epic Shore Break: The waves here are powerful, great for bodyboarding if you know what you're doing, but also awesome just to watch the ocean do its thing. Beautiful Scenery: With Molokini Crater and Kaho'olawe Island off in the distance and black lava cliffs surrounding the beach, the photo ops here are next level. Sunset Heaven: The beach faces west, so sunsets here are absolutely glowing and dramatic so bring your camera! Secret Beach Nearby: Just over the rocks at the north end is Little Beach, a smaller cove that's famous for its clothing-optional vibe and Sunday drum circles.
Tips for Visiting
Best Time to Go? Morning or late afternoon, midday sun is strong, and there's very little natural shade.
How to Get There: Drive south past Wailea until the road ends at Makena State Park. There's parking at two main entrances, with signs for Big Beach.
Facilities: There are restrooms, picnic tables, and lifeguards, but no food stands, so bring snacks and plenty of water.
Be Cautious in the Water: The shore break is intense, especially during swells. If you're unsure, it's better to stay shallow or just enjoy the view.
Pack Smart: Sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, and maybe an umbrella. This beach gets hot, and there's no shade unless you bring it.
Respect the Area: Big Beach is in a natural state park, so leave no trace and take all trash with you.
Thoughts from my Visit
Big Beach is a beautiful, long, wide, undeveloped sandy beach. Impressive, with huge views and a large shore-break. One of the most outstanding beaches in Maui. Big Beach is well over a half a mile long, and very wide. Big Beach is not the official name of this beach, but it is the name which it is most well known by. Other names for this beach are: Makena Beach and Oneloa Beach.