Makalawena Review

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Makalawena

  • Address: Hwy. 19, between mile markers 88 and 89; if you're walking, park in lot at Kekaha Kai State Park and follow footpath along the shore, HI | Map It

Fodor's Review:

Makalawena is a long white crescent, dotted with little coves and surrounded by dunes and trees. The sand is powdery fine, the water is perfect, and the place is deserted. If it weren't so hard to get to, this would be the unanimous choice for best beach on the island. Like Kua Bay, Mahaiula and Kaelehuluhulu, it is within Kekaha Kai State Park, but it is the most remote. You either have to rent a boat and anchor there, walk 20 minutes on a rough coastal trail over lava rock terrain, or take a brutal four-wheel-drive jaunt over the lava. (You still have to walk the last 5 to 10 minutes.) But it's worth it. Makalawena is more than just a great beach—it's a truly magical place. An afternoon here is a recipe for delirious happiness. Locals bodyboard here occasionally, but a jetty on the north end of the beach creates a calm area for swimming even when the surf's up a bit. Did we mention that there are wild goats hanging around on the trail leading to the beach? There's a freshwater pond that beats hosing off at one of those water-spigot showers at the marked public beaches. The walk over the lava isn't too bad if you're steady on your feet, but remember to wear sturdy shoes, pack light, and make sure you have sunscreen on before heading out, as most of the trail is exposed to direct sun.

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