Makaiwa Beach

Makaiwa Beach is located within the Mauna Lani development and feels very much like a private beach due to its small size and the surrounding estate. Additionally, public parking to access to this little patch of sand is at the trailhead for the Kalahuipua'a Trail + Fishponds; the parking nearest the beach is restricted to guests and residents of the Mauna Lani. While the walk through the Kalahuipua'a Historic Park isn't short, it isn't dull, either. You'll want to travel light and leave the beach chairs in the car, but on the other hand you'll get to see a cave where Hawaiians lived for centuries and the elaborate fishponds that were managed as a food source.

Makaiwa Beach itself is an extremely low key spot. The beach is only a few hundred yards long and is backed by the resort's landscaping. This protected area gets very little surf, and the gradient into the water is so gradual that you could be out 20 feet from shore and still head and shoulders above the water. The area is almost all sand, so there are no pesky rocks to grab your toes as you shuffle around. All of this makes Makaiwa a great spot to bring children if you can get them through the walk to access the beach. Additionally, the beach has outside showers, restrooms, a restaurant, and a rental shack all on site. Between the amenities, the fine sand, the calm waters, and the picturesque setting, Makaiwa Beach should definitely be on your list of beach options on this side of the island.