Family-friendly, sandy beach with lots of space and opportunity for ocean activities.
Po’olenalena Beach
Po’olenalena Beach is a beautiful and relatively quiet beach located in South Maui. It is known for its soft, golden sands, clear waters, and a serene atmosphere, making it a favored destination for those looking for a peaceful beach experience.
Po’olenalena Beach is situated in the Makena area of South Maui, approximately 10-15 minutes south of Auntie Snorkel Kihei. It is a short drive away from Wailea amenities, restaurants, and shopping.
Parking and Access
Heading south on Makena Alanui Drive, you’ll pass the Wailea Golf Club on your left, and Makena Road on your right. Soon after you’ll see the sign for Po’olenalena Beach Park. Turn right there, and you have arrived at the parking lot. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle!
Access is an easy stroll from the parking lot out to the beach. Keep your slippahs on for walking through the Keawe trees, as their fallen branches have mean thorns!
Facilities and Amenities
Po’olenalena Beach is relatively undeveloped and lacks amenities except for portable toilets and garbage cans. Visitors should plan to bring their own supplies for a beach day.
There is no lifeguard at this beach.
Click to view a live webcam at the south end of Po’olenalena Beach, also known as Chang’s Beach.
Check the live webcam at the south end of Po’olenalena Beach, also known as Chang’s Beach, here.
While the beach itself doesn’t have extensive coral formations, there are some rocky areas at either end of the beach where you can snorkel and observe marine life. These rocky outcrops provide habitat for colorful fish. Dive under water during peak whale season to listen for whale songs!
The usually calm and clear waters at Po’olenalena Beach make it suitable for swimming and wading. The gentle waves and a gradual slope into the ocean create a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for the whole family.
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 Po’olenalena 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.
Po’olenalena is a favorite of visitors and locals alike.
Environment and Seasonal Variation
Po’olenalena 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 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.
Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Po’olenalena Beach by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. If you’re looking for well-rounded fun and a less touristy beach experience in Maui, Po’olenalena Beach is a great choice.
About
Auntie Snorkel
Auntie Snorkel shop has been serving Maui’s fun seekers for over 33 years, established in 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)
order online and pick up in store, a quick smooth process. cap Callie was very nice and friendly! highly recommend! i’d rent here again when i come back next time. 🤙🏼
Corbin H.
Rented snorkel gear here multiple times. Always super easy process, fair price & great gear! Sarah helped us, was super nice & gave us some recommendations on spots to go snorkeling! Will definitely rent here again :)
Megan L.
Scott was so helpful and friendly! He explained how to use the equipment and provided us with info on the best places to visit. This was the best deal on gear that we found and they were great quality! Definitely recommend and will come here again on the next trip!
HRC
Rented snorkel sets and boogie boards here last year, great service. Thanks!
Madison M.
Friendly staff, effective snorkel gear. Sarah was knowledgeable on the snorkeling areas and provided us with guidance to give us the best snorkel experience possible. We even got some prescription snorkel goggles, which we were so grateful for.
Abby W.
We had a great experience. Burton was knowledgeable and friendly.
Tom B.
We got a few boogie boards and Sarah told us about the killer spots to go. So we did. And lost all of our jewelry, got scraped up all over our bodies, and literallyate sand. It was awesome. Thank you guys.
