Makena Landing Beach Park

Makena Landing Beach Park is a small South Maui launch and snorkel spot, with lava-rock coves, turtle sightings, kayak tours, scuba entry and no lifeguards.

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Makena Landing Beach Park, Maui

Makena Landing Beach Park is located in Makena, an area of South Maui known for a more rugged, open shoreline. Makena Landing Beach is bordered by a small beach park, but this stretch of coast is mostly rocky with limited sand. South of the landing are two small pockets of sand that can work for a short picnic stop. This is also a popular place to launch kayaks.

In 1999, a storm hit this beach, and runoff caused unusually cloudy water conditions that damaged the coral reef. A popular scuba diving area is located just north of this beach, called 5 Graves or 5 Caves. Snorkeling can also be possible when the water is calm and clear, but conditions vary with wind, surf and visibility.

Key Features

Small South Maui beach park and ocean entry in Makena
Popular launch point for kayak tours, snorkel tours and scuba divers
Lava-rock coves and reef water sit close to shore
Part of the broader Turtle Town area along South Maui's coast
Hawaiian green sea turtles are often seen in the water nearby
No lifeguards are stationed at Makena Landing Beach Park
Small parking lot can fill quickly in the morning
Rocky shoreline makes shoes or sandals a good idea
Watch for boats, kayaks and dive groups near the entry
Makena Landing is known for kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, turtle sightings and rocky South Maui shoreline scenery

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do kayak and snorkel tours start at Makena Landing?

The small bay gives tour operators a sheltered shoreline entry close to South Maui reef areas, with lava-rock coves and turtle habitat nearby.

What is Five Caves near Makena Landing?

Five Caves, also called Five Graves by some divers, is a nearby lava-rock dive and snorkel area known for underwater arches, caves and reef life when conditions are calm.

Why is Makena Landing connected with Turtle Town?

The reefs off this part of South Maui are often associated with Turtle Town because Hawaiian green sea turtles are commonly seen resting or feeding in the area.

How does Makena Landing compare with Maluaka Beach?

Makena Landing has more of a launch-and-entry feel for tours, divers and snorkelers, while nearby Maluaka Beach has a longer sandy shoreline for beach time.

What should visitors notice along the lava rocks?

The rocky edges create tide-pool textures, pockets of reef life and small shoreline views toward the bay. Move slowly and avoid stepping on coral or disturbing marine life.