A family friendly, long and sandy beach with good snorkeling and facilities.
Maluaka Beach
Maluaka Beach is a picturesque and family-friendly beach located in the Makena area of South Maui. It is known for its soft, golden sand, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy a relaxing beach experience.
Maluaka Beach is situated in the Makena area of South Maui, near the Makena Beach & Golf Resort. It’s approximately 15-20 minutes south of Auntie Snorkel Kihei.
Parking and Access
Going south on Makena Alanui Drive, pass the Makena Beach & Golf Resort. In about a quarter mile, turn right onto Makena Keononio Road and you’ll see a parking lot on your right. Keep going to see if there are any available spots in the center margin a bit further down (and closer to the beach). If those are full, just take the road to the cul-de-sac at the end to head back to that parking lot you passed on the way in. As with most beach parking in Maui, the earlier you arrive the better your luck!
To access the beach, walk down the path marked by the yellow poles. You’ll find a grassy area with picnic tables and facilities above the beach. There are a few stairs or a grassy ramp you can take down to the beach.
Facilities and Amenities
Maluaka Beach offers amenities such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and shaded areas for picnicking and relaxation. These facilities contribute to a comfortable beach experience.
While the beach itself doesn’t have extensive coral formations, there are rocky areas at either end of the beach where you can snorkel and observe marine life. These rocky outcrops provide habitat for colorful fish and large sea turtles.
The waters at Maluaka Beach are typically calm and clear, making it an ideal location for swimming and wading. Families often choose Maluaka Beach for its gentle waves and safe swimming conditions.
Summer south swells can bring some shore break to this beach, making for fun boogie boarding or body surfing. Please always exercise extra caution with waves, and if in doubt, don’t go out!
On calm mornings, stand-up paddle boarding is a great option at Maluaka Beach. The long stretch of beach and crystal clear waters make for a beautiful paddle. Just be aware that the wind can pick up strongly and quickly from late morning through the day, so the earlier you go out the better.
Snorkeling is easily accessible at the south end of Maluaka.
Environment and Seasonal Variation
Maluaka Beach is calm and beautiful most mornings year round. It is common for the wind to become strong and gusty from the middle of the day, so this area is best early.
Summer south swells are most likely to bring waves and impede underwater viewing conditions, or even be dangerous. Winter will have more flat, calm water days.
It’s important for visitors to respect the local rules and regulations, including not touching or damaging the coral, not collecting or harassing marine life, and not disturbing the natural habitat.
Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Maluaka Beach by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. Maluaka Beach is a popular choice for tourists and locals alike, thanks to its natural beauty, family-friendly setting, and easy accessibility. Whether you’re interested in swimming, snorkeling, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the shore, Maluaka Beach provides a welcoming and serene beach experience in the Makena area of Maui.
About
Auntie Snorkel
Auntie Snorkel shop has been serving Maui’s fun seekers since 1985. We're the original South Maui Snorkel Shop. When I bought the shop 10 years ago from Auntie, we decided to keep the name. The name "Auntie" is a term of respect here in Hawaii. I'm living my dream. I get to meet awesome people from all over the world and share with them my love and knowledge of this magical island that I get to call home. We know all the spots. I have lived here since 2001. We're the true definition of a family owned and operated shop. I answer the phones and work the shop along with my family. When you shop with us you're supporting my ohana and for that I thank you!! Why go anywhere else? We're the friendliest, fastest, cheapest and our location is the most epic! Mahalo and Aloha”. ~Mark Noble (Owner & Maui Fun Expert)
Thanks Dave for all your snorkelling tips. The gear was first rate. We saw amazing fish and coral in beautiful clear water.
Nikita D.
Great experience with Burton at the Lahaina shop
david X.
Ridiculous good value. Super friendly staff Burton was extremely helpful will rent here again!
BARBARA R.
We had such a great experience renting our surfboards here. Jake helped us out and was super friendly, knowledgeable, and easy to talk to. He made the whole process simple and gave us great recommendations for spots around Maui. Burton was also awesome and made us feel really welcome. The prices were very fair and everything was in great condition. You can really tell they care about their customers and want you to have the best time possible. We’ll definitely come back next time we’re in Maui.
