Makalawena Beach

As I trekked my way from the eastern trail on foot, I was greeted with picturesque views that were simply breathtaking. Upon arriving at Makalawena Beach, I was welcomed with open arms by a group of newfound friends who shared my appreciation for everything that life has to offer. The journey to this beach may be a bit of a challenge, but trust me, it's well worth the effort! Remember to leave no trace and pack out any trash that you might come across. Consider it your daily dose of good karma. If you're fortunate enough, you might just catch a glimpse of some awe-inspiring wildlife. But, let's be real, the real treasure here is the sense of community and camaraderie that this beach fosters.

The beaches on the big island are absolutely stunning! Each one has its own unique charm and beauty. To reach this particular beach, you may need to take a short hike or have a sturdy vehicle, but the journey is well worth it. The hike itself is not too challenging, and once you arrive at the beach, you'll be greeted with a breathtaking view. Keep in mind that there is not much shade along the way, but the reward at the end is worth every step.

This beach on the big island is sure to capture your heart! Arrive early and you may be fortunate enough to have the entire beach to yourself. Even during peak times, the beach is relatively peaceful with only a handful of beachgoers. As you make your way through the rugged lava field, be sure to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring a positive mindset. The path is level but the ground is uneven. If you successfully navigate the bumpy road to the gravel lot, you will need to trek for approximately 30-45 minutes to reach your destination. The beach boasts an array of charming coves - some with crashing waves and others with tranquil waters. You are sure to find a spot that speaks to your soul.

The journey to the beach took us approximately 15 minutes, and it was a slow ride. We highly recommend an SUV for a smoother ride. Upon arrival, we parked near the trailhead, which was a 10-minute walk over a sandy and gravelly terrain. The first beach we stumbled upon had an old red building, and we stayed in front of it before taking a short coastal trail. The next leg of the journey was the most challenging, as it required a 20-minute walk over some rough and jagged lava rocks, some of which were quite large. It is essential to wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes, as we witnessed some individuals in sandals, which we would not recommend. One misstep on the lava rocks could ruin your vacation. We arrived early, and the cooler weather made the walk more manageable. However, we suggest carrying water as it can get hot on the way back. Once we passed the lava rock section, we reached the first beach, which was breathtaking. However, the beaches only got better as we walked further. We were captivated by the tide pools and rocky areas, and the water was enchanting. The sand was exceptionally soft, making it a perfect place to relax. The beach had shaded areas, which were a welcome respite from the sun. We recommend visiting early, when the water is calmer, and there are fewer people. We were the second group to arrive, and it was an incredible feeling to have an almost empty beach in Hawaii all to ourselves. It was an excellent way to end our trip.

The beach was a complete letdown. We had to park off the main highway and hike for about 2 miles (4 miles round trip) just to get there. Even if you have a 4 wheel drive, I wouldn't recommend getting any closer. The terrain was so rugged that we had to wear closed toe shoes, and it was still a struggle. The beach itself was secluded, but it was hardly worth the effort to get there. There were no vendors or restrooms, so we were completely on our own. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this beach to anyone.