Palauea Beach – White Rock Beach Guide

Palauea Beach – White Rock

Palauea Beach, also known as White Rock Beach, is a picturesque and secluded beach located in South Maui, Hawaii. This small, hidden gem offers pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil and uncrowded beach experience.

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Directions and Distance from Auntie Snorkel 

• https://maps.app.goo.gl/CxZe3vxujpRvherWA
• Palauea Beach is tucked away in the Makena area of South Maui, providing a more remote and serene setting. It is an approximately 15 minute drive south from Auntie Snorkel Kihei.

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Parking and Access

• Traveling south on Makena Rd, the houses on your right will end and you’ll see a sandy area with Keawe trees that shields the beach from the road. Find a legal parking spot on the side of the road. Legal parking is very limited in the area, so an early arrival is best.
• Look for the portable toilet and garbage can by the park rules sign. There is a sandy path from there to the beach. Keep your slippahs on for walking through the Keawe trees, as their fallen branches have mean thorns!

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Facilities and Amenities

• Palauea Beach is relatively undeveloped and lacks amenities except for a portable toilet and garbage can. Visitors should plan to bring their own supplies for a beach day.
• There is no lifeguard at this beach.

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What to Bring

• Bring the whole family and everything you want for a full beach day! Auntie recommends snorkeling gear, a GoPro, floatation, boogie boards, umbrellas, beach chairs, snacks and a wagon to carry it all.

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Snorkeling and Surf

• While Palauea Beach doesn’t have extensive coral formations, there are some rocky areas along the north and south ends of the beach that provide opportunities for snorkeling.
• The waters at Palauea Beach are typically calm and clear, making it suitable for swimming and wading. The beach offers a gently sloping shoreline, which is ideal for families with children.
• 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!

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Environment and Seasonal Variation

• Palauea 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 beach is best early. 
• Summer south swells are most likely to bring waves. 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.

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Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Palauea Beach by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. Palauea Beach is an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful and uncrowded beach in a remote and natural setting. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind in the serene beauty of the shoreline, Palauea Beach provides a tranquil and secluded beach experience in South Maui.