Makena Beach State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 6, 2025
Makena Beach State Park is a popular destination located on the southwestern coast of Maui, Hawaii.
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Summary
It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
There are many good reasons to visit Makena Beach State Park, including its excellent swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. The park is also home to several hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the most popular attractions in the park is the "Big Beach," which is a long stretch of white sand beach that is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and playing in the waves. Another popular spot is the "Little Beach," which is located just next to the Big Beach and is known for its great snorkeling opportunities and colorful marine life.
Interesting facts about Makena Beach State Park include that it used to be a popular spot for Hawaiian royalty, who would often come to the area to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Today, the park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with thousands of visitors coming to the park each year to enjoy its natural beauty and recreational activities.
The best time of year to visit Makena Beach State Park is during the months of April through October, when the weather is warm and dry, and the ocean conditions are typically calm and clear. However, visitors should be aware that the park can be crowded during peak season, and that parking can be limited at times. It is recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot and avoid the crowds.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
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chemin vers la côte
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maybe camping
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